Niwot natural gas leak isolated, soon to be repaired

XCel Energy has isolated the source of a natural gas leak causing a bad odor affecting the downtown area, and expected to have it repaired by early Saturday evening.

XCel spokesman Mark Stutz said the problem was first reported at about 1:30 a.m. Saturday in the area of Fourth Avenue and Franklin Street.

"The leak was at about three-and-a-half feet deep," said Stutz. "The pipe just separated. It was really in good shape other than at the point of the break. We don't know what caused it."

Stutz said the pipe break was allowing natural gas to vent into a nearby sewer line, causing the gas to escape to the surface.

Stutz added that although there is no loss of service as a result of the leak, XCel crews will be in the area the remainder of the day.

Although there is no immediate safety hazard, Stutz advised that unless people have a specific need to be in the area, it is advisable to steer clear until the problem is resolved, primarily because the area is now "an active repair site."

Stutz also said that if people find that the odor is particularly strong, or have other concerns they want to report to the utility, they should not hesitate to call 1-800-895-4999.

"Also," he said, "if the odor is bothering people, it's a good idea to keep doors and windows closed, although at this time of year that's not as big a concern."

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